About Respiratory infections
Respiratory infections affect the nose, throat, airways or lungs and are most often caused by viruses, though bacteria can also be responsible. Cough, congestion, sore throat and fever are common, while breathing difficulty needs prompt assessment.
Symptoms can overlap between conditions. How they change, relevant health history, medications and risk factors are therefore as important as the condition name during an assessment.
Symptoms and details worth noting
Before a consultation, note the details that best describe the concern. They help the healthcare professional understand the problem and how urgent it may be.
- Cough duration and whether it is dry or produces mucus
- Fever, sore throat, congestion, wheeze or shortness of breath
- Exposure to illness, smoke, allergens or workplace irritants
- Asthma, lung disease, pregnancy and other risk factors
Possible causes and context
These factors can guide an assessment, but they cannot confirm a diagnosis on their own.
- A viral or bacterial respiratory infection
- Allergy, asthma or airway irritation
- Smoke, vaping or occupational exposure
- A chronic lung condition or another cause that needs examination
LASO MD
How a virtual consultation may help
The healthcare professional first checks symptoms, risk factors and warning signs. Based on the assessment, they may discuss appropriate options or recommend in-person care.
- Review breathing symptoms and their timeline
- Assess fever, hydration and risk factors
- Discuss symptom relief and infection precautions
- Determine whether testing, listening to the lungs or imaging is needed
Signs that need prompt attention
Call 911 for severe trouble breathing, blue or grey lips, chest pain, new confusion, fainting, coughing up significant blood or rapidly worsening symptoms.